Robert Oster Signature Ink Swatch Tests – Final Batch

Well it had to happen eventually. Here is the final batch in the Robert Oster Signature range and as to be expected, Rob never disappoints. With his classic sheens, chromatic behaviours and reaction to bleach, it’s another dream test of quality colours. There are three inks here that I was desperate to get hold of: Yellow Sunset, Tangerine and Graphite and I think maybe you can see why. The sheening is simply astounding, particularly for the Yellow Sunset and the chromatography is simply gorgeous. For me though, the standout ink is Graphite. Did you know, I haven’t tested an Oster black before? Black is a staple ink in any range and with all of his colours being high quality how would the graphite stand up? As you’ll observe, there are two colours in evidence at the bleed edge – turquoise and damson. Beautiful and unique. The nearest equivalent is possibly Monteverde Black but this Graphite has got so much more about it. I am compelled to create test art very soon. Also of note are Blue Black with some lovely cyans and purples in evidence at the bleed edge. and Australian Opal Flame.

I have thoroughly enjoyed every interaction with the Signature range. For art journaling – handwriting and painting – they are an absolute pleasure. And for anyone who hasn’t tried the Signature or the inkArt.ink ranges, I’ll be using these at a workshop I’m involved with – scheduled for mid September in Belgium. I’ll attach a poster at the end of this piece.

So what’s next for Mr Oster? Well, it appears that he’s going to be releasing limited editions for international events – DC Pen Show – for special clients and collectors. As yet, there has been no mention of shimmer inks, but who knows? He’s a man on a mission!

If you’d like to buy any of the original art featured on my site you can purchase it on my ETSY shop site or contact me direct. I will do my upmost to add value to your investment over time – click here to access the shop . I am also accepting commissions for swatch tests. So, if you have a favourite ink(s) and some words for someone special, or maybe just for yourself, drop me a line and we can discuss further.

If you’d like to know more about this project, please take a look at the Mission Statement.

All tests on Bockingford 200lb watercolour paper using brushes and a Noodler’s Ahab for the ink work.

Nick Stewart

I create art using fountain pen inks and bleach. My techniques epitomise the whole ethos of ‘less is more’ and demonstrate how much one can achieve using very little. It is also a medium that is very much serendipity led and the beauty of the final outcomes are often dictated by this.